Iceland Ring Road & Highlands Self-Drive - 12 Days

Are you ready for an invigorating day amongst the natural wonders of the Snæfellsnes peninsula? You can take all the time you need to discover the amazing sites here, as this region often called 'Iceland in Miniature' showcases incredible landscape diversity. 

Begin your exploration at the dramatic Eldborg volcanic crater, a perfectly formed cone rising from the lava fields. Continue to the impressive Gerðuberg basalt columns, where geometric rock formations create a natural wall that seems almost too perfect to be real. Visit the quaint hamlet of Búðir, where the iconic black church stands alone against a backdrop of lava fields and ocean, creating one of Iceland's most photographed scenes. Stop at Djúpalónssandur beach, a striking black pebble beach where you can test your strength on ancient lifting stones and see historical shipwreck remains scattered across the shore. 

Throughout the day, don't miss the views of the majestic Snæfellsjökull, the glacier-capped volcano that dominates the peninsula and inspired Jules Verne's 'Journey to the Center of the Earth.' The entire region is protected as Snæfellsjökull National Park. Explore coastal villages and dramatic sea cliffs before settling into your accommodation on or near the peninsula for the night. 

From Stykkishólmur or the Snæfellsnes area, you'll head southwest toward the fjord of Borgarfjörður, a region characterized by vast lands, sweeping views, and rich cultural heritage. This fertile valley is set against a cultural background straight out of Icelandic sagas, where many of Iceland's most famous stories took place. The area offers spectacular natural beauty with sweeping views of Langjökull glacier gleaming in the distance, its massive ice cap dominating the inland horizon. 

Stop at the beautiful waterfalls of the region, where water flows from beneath lava fields into rivers below, creating memorable cascades. Visit Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring in terms of water flow, where massive amounts of boiling water emerge from the ground. Explore Reykholt, where the famous medieval writer Snorri Sturluson lived, and marvel at Hraunfossar waterfalls, where water flows from beneath a lava field. The nearby Barnafoss waterfall is just a short walk away. The combination of flowing water and lava creates beautiful natural contrasts. Continue your journey north toward Akureyri, ready for tomorrow's exploration of North Iceland. 

Today's itinerary takes you through North Iceland toward the charming capital of the north. Drive through farm fields and the Skagafjörður region, known for Icelandic horse breeding. You will in fact surely encounter several of these beautiful animals grazing in the fields along your way to Akureyri. These sturdy, friendly horses are a quintessential part of Icelandic culture, and watching them in their natural environment is a highlight of any journey through this region. 

There are several stops along the way that you could take to explore further. You could spot seals in their natural habitat at the Vatnsnes peninsula, where these charming marine mammals often lounge on rocks along the shore. Visit the museum at Glaumbær, one of the few turf farmhouses that has been properly preserved in Iceland. This fascinating site shows how Icelanders lived for centuries, with grass-covered roofs providing insulation against harsh conditions. The turf houses blend beautifully into the landscape. Arrive in Akureyri, nestled at the head of Eyjafjörður fjord, where you'll spend the night. This delightful northern capital offers colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. 

There are more natural wonders on the program today! Your first stop is at the impressive Goðafoss waterfall, known as the 'Waterfall of the Gods,' where water cascades dramatically over a 12-meter drop. Before heading onwards to the Mývatn area, take time to appreciate this beautiful horseshoe-shaped waterfall. Continue to Lake Mývatn, one of Iceland's most extraordinary regions. Along the way, you can visit several awe-inspiring sites such as Dimmuborgir, a mesmerizing lava field labyrinth where twisted rock formations create an otherworldly maze that locals call 'Dark Castles.' 

Explore the ancient pseudo-craters of Skútustaðir, unique geological formations created when lava flowed over wetlands, causing steam explosions. Visit Iceland's largest sulfurous hot spring area, the Námaskarð geothermal field, where you can walk among hissing steam vents, bubbling mud pools, and colorful mineral deposits. The ground is painted in vivid shades of yellow, orange, and red from sulfur and other minerals. The contrast between the serene lake and the raw volcanic features surrounding it creates an unforgettable landscape. Spend the night in the Lake Mývatn area, with a full day tomorrow to explore even more of this remarkable region. 

You have the full day to explore the north of Iceland further, with numerous spectacular options. Consider driving around the Tjörnes peninsula, as it offers some amazing experiences and dramatic coastal scenery. Visit Dettifoss, Iceland's most powerful waterfall, which can literally make the ground shake beneath your feet. The sheer volume of water thundering over the 45-meter drop creates a roar you can hear from far away, and the mist rises like smoke. Stand at the viewing platform and feel the raw power of nature. 

Continue to the lush Ásbyrgi canyon, a horseshoe-shaped gorge filled with vegetation and towering rock walls. According to legend, this formation was created when Odin's eight-legged horse touched down with one hoof. Walk through the canyon and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere in this natural amphitheater. On the way to Egilsstaðir, you could take a slight detour to drive through Möðrudalur's highland area, where the lunar-like landscape feels like driving on another planet. This is Iceland's highest inhabited farm, and the barren beauty of the surroundings is striking. Arrive in Egilsstaðir, gateway to the Eastfjords, for the night. 

Today you'll discover the beautiful Eastfjords, where steep mountains rise dramatically above deep blue fjords. Start by driving through Reyðarfjörður, where you'll find the local World War II museum documenting the Allied presence in these remote fjords. This small but fascinating museum offers insights into how thousands of soldiers were stationed here during the war. Continue heading southeast, and your drive down the east coast will take you through rugged landscapes. The route winds along the shoreline and lower mountainsides, offering beautiful views across the water at every turn. 

Each fjord has its own unique character, from narrow and dramatic to broad and serene. Pass through tiny fishing villages where colorful houses cluster around small harbors, and locals still make their living from the sea. Watch for reindeer, which roam freely in the mountains of East Iceland and are found nowhere else in the country. The region's relative isolation has preserved traditional ways of life. Finally, you'll drive through the Almannaskarð tunnel, emerging with spectacular views of Vatnajökull glacier dominating the horizon. Arrive in the Höfn region, known as Iceland's lobster capital, for the night. 

Your next stop is Iceland's scenic southeast, one of the most visually spectacular regions in the country. You'll first pass by various outlet glaciers belonging to Vatnajökull, Europe's largest ice cap. These massive rivers of ice flowing down from the ice cap create a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. Arrive at the stunning Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, famous for its enormous floating icebergs. Watch these massive ice chunks that have calved from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier drift slowly through the deep blue water. This exceptional sight sits at the foot of Iceland's highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur, creating a dramatic backdrop. The icebergs range from brilliant white to stunning shades of blue, some streaked with black volcanic ash. You could even book an optional boat tour onto the lagoon for a closer look at these magnificent ice sculptures. Cross the road to Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash up on black volcanic sand, sparkling like giant diamonds. 

Visit Skaftafell, another must-see area and oasis surrounded by glaciers and black sand plains. This area offers a broad range of options for impressive hikes through birch forests with stunning views of waterfalls and glacial tongues. Continue through the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, across the vast Eldhraun lava field covered in soft green moss, and over the Mýrdalssandur plain before arriving in the Vík area for the night. 

Today you'll take in some of the top highlights of the south coast before completing the Golden Circle route. Start the morning by admiring the powerful waterfalls of Iceland's famous south coast. Begin at Skógafoss, one of Iceland's largest waterfalls at 60 meters high, where you can climb stairs beside the falls for incredible aerial views or walk right up to the base to feel the power. 

Continue to Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the curtain of falling water for a unique perspective. Don't miss the nearby hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall tucked inside a narrow canyon. Later, marvel at the attractions of the famous Golden Circle. First stop is the imposing Gullfoss waterfall, where the Hvítá river plunges in two dramatic stages into a rugged canyon. The sheer power is awe-inspiring. 

Continue to the Geysir geothermal area, where you can witness Strokkur geyser propel water in the air every 5 to 10 minutes. The anticipation before each eruption never gets old. Last but not least, visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating this impressive landscape of deep fissures and towering rock walls. Walk through the Almannagjá rift valley and stand where Iceland's ancient parliament was founded in 930 AD. Drive to the Laugarvatn area for the night. 

From Laugarvatn, today you embark on an exciting day trip to Landmannalaugar, a highlight for many who come to Iceland and one of the country's most spectacular natural areas. To reach the colorful volcanic mountains of Landmannalaugar, you must first cross rivers and drive past mountain passes in your 4x4 vehicle, navigating challenging highland roads that make this journey a true adventure. The drive itself is unforgettable, taking you through moon-like lava fields and landscapes that seem completely alien. Once you arrive, you'll understand why this remote destination is worth the challenging journey. Here you can walk between vibrant mountains painted in incredible shades of red, orange, yellow, green, and blue from various mineral deposits and rhyolite rock. The colorful peaks create a surreal natural palette unlike anywhere else on Earth. Explore fields of black obsidian lava, their glassy surfaces glinting in the sunlight. T

ake some time to bathe in the area's relaxing natural hot springs, where geothermally heated water mixes with cold stream water at the bottom of a river, creating wonderful temperatures for a natural bath surrounded by colorful mountains. The combination of dramatic scenery and geothermal bathing makes Landmannalaugar an unforgettable experience. Get comprehensive information about hiking tracks at the mountain hut if you want to explore further. Return to your accommodation in the Laugarvatn area for the night. 

This is your last full day in Iceland, so take some time to soak in the final experiences that this incredible country has to offer. You'll pass through Hveragerði on your way to Reykjavík, a charming town built on top of a highly active geothermal area. The town is famous for its geothermally heated greenhouses and steaming vents throughout the settlement. Along the way, you have options for activities if you'd like to add some adventure to your final day.

 Consider going horseback riding through Icelandic landscapes on the sturdy native horses, trying kayaking on pristine waters, or even relaxing in a natural geothermal river after a hike in the beautiful Reykjadalur valley. The hike to the hot river takes about an hour, and once there, you can bathe in warm waters surrounded by mountains and steaming vents. You have the rest of the day to explore Reykjavík at your leisure. Browse shops for last-minute souvenirs, visit museums or galleries you might have missed, or relax in cozy cafes with excellent coffee. Consider visiting the National Museum, Harpa concert hall, or simply wandering through the colorful streets. Celebrate your incredible 12-day journey with dinner at one of Reykjavík's excellent restaurants, perhaps trying traditional Icelandic dishes or fresh seafood. Spend your final night in Iceland's vibrant capital, reflecting on the amazing landscapes you've experienced. 

It is now time to head back home after an amazing 12-day journey through some of the world's most picturesque landscapes. Depending on your flight time, you may have a few hours to enjoy a final morning in Reykjavík. Take a leisurely breakfast at one of the city's excellent cafes, perhaps trying traditional Icelandic pastries or a hearty meal to fuel your journey home. Do some last-minute souvenir shopping for Icelandic wool sweaters or local chocolate and treats. 

If your flight is later in the day, you might want to enjoy a last stroll around Reykjavík or visit one last museum or attraction in the city. Consider stopping at the modern Harpa concert hall with its stunning glass facade, or take one final walk through the colorful streets, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this northern capital. Drive back to Keflavík Airport to return your rental car and check in for your flight home, carrying memories of the complete Ring Road circuit, the colorful highland mountains of Landmannalaugar, river crossings and moon-like landscapes, floating icebergs, dramatic waterfalls, and the incredible natural diversity of Iceland. You've experienced both the famous attractions and the remote highland wilderness. You're already planning your return.